The consular office performs some notarial functions provided for by the Italian law – exclusively with regard to Italian citizens who are abroad permanently or temporarily. These functions are essentially receiving public deeds (powers of attorney, wills), notarial acts, affidavits, authentications and signatures affixed to private deeds.
Italian citizens abroad may, alternatively, formalise the deed with a notary public officially accredited in the country of residence. Later, if the country has acceded to the Hague Convention of 1961 abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents, they shall arrange to have the “apostille” affixed to the document by the competent Authority in the country of residence. In this regard, it is suggested that you also consult the section dedicated to the Translation and legalization of documents.